Former NBA Player Sean Rooks Dead At 46

It is with deep sadness and overwhelming grief that we mourn the sudden loss of my son, Sean,” his mother, Deborah Brown, said in a statement released by the 76ers. “Our family asks that our privacy be respected as we grieve during this incredibly difficult time.”

Rooks collapsed and died while having dinner at a Philadelphia restaurant, sources told The Undefeated’s Marc Spears.

Earlier in the day, Rooks had visited with Knicks president Phil Jackson and general manager Steve Mills for an assistant coaching position on Jeff Hornacek’s staff. Rooks’ interview with the Knicks was first reported by The Vertical.

Rooks got into coaching in 2007 and had been with the 76ers organization since 2014, prior to his release a couple of weeks ago.

“Sean will long be remembered not for his accomplishments on the court — of which there were many — but for his vibrant personality, positive outlook and the genuine care he had for everyone in his life,” the 76ers said in a statement.